The largest resort in the Southern Hemisphere, Perisher Valley, Australia
When talking about the Australian ski season it is hard to not begin the discussion with Perisher. Located in South Eastern NSW in the Kosciuszko National Park Perisher is made up of four resort areas; Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Smiggins Holes and Guthega.
These four areas, linked up by a network of 47 lifts, makes Perisher the largest alpine resort in the Southern Hemisphere. Make sure your t-bar riding is up to standard, however, as most of the 47 comprise of t-bars and pomas.
The terrain in Perisher consists mostly of intermediate grade but still offers plenty of beginner riding and also some advanced terrain for the adventurous.
While most travellers to the area will stay in Jindabyne, Perisher Valley offers a wide variety of accommodation and entertainment possibilities. Visitors staying on the mountain access their accommodation by the ski-tube; an old underground train travelling straight through the heart of the Snowy Mountains, arriving in the Valley Terminal with access to all lodging via over snow transport.
Many lodges offer their own entertainment and après activities, with local musicians doing the weekly rounds at various venues.
For those who can’t get enough riding, Tuesday and Saturday nights see Perisher’s Front Valley lit up and night boarding is the go. The famous Front Valley Terrain Park is open and a firework display make the night a must for all visitors.
An added bonus that’s new for Perisher pass holders this season is Perisher’s partnership with Vail Resorts in America. Season pass holders can now gain unlimited access to resorts in the states including Park City, Breckenridge, Northstar, Heavenly and a number of others.
The season runs from June 6th to October 5th with lift passes sitting at $367 for a weekly pass. Daily and half-day passes are available too.
Check Perisher's website for updated pass prices throughout the season